An AI system being developed at an NHS Trust aims to reduce waiting times and get patients discharged faster.
The tool, in development at Chelsea and Westminster NHS Trust, is among a handful of projects backed by the UK government’s AI Exemplars programme.
It will aim to help doctors draft discharge documents more quickly, pulling details from medical records. The document, which will remain subject to expert review and approval, will then be used to discharge the patient.
The AI tool would in theory remove what the government has described as an “outdated system” that leaves patients on wards for unnecessarily long.
“This potentially transformational discharge tool is a prime example of how we’re shifting from analogue to digital as part of our 10 Year Health Plan,” said Health Secretary Wes Streeting.
“We’re using cutting-edge technology to build an NHS fit for the future and tackle the hospital backlogs that have left too many people waiting too long. Doctors will spend less time on paperwork and more time with patients, getting people home to their families faster and freeing up beds for those who need them most.
Another project announced as part of the AI Exemplars programme is Justice Transcribe, a tool for probation officers to transcribe and take notes in meetings with offenders. Justice Transcribe will be scaled to all 12,000 probation officers.
“This is exactly the kind of change we need: AI being used to give doctors, probation officers and other key workers more time to focus on delivering better outcomes and speeding up vital services,” said Technology Secretary Peter Kyle on a visit to Chelsea and Westminster Hospital.
“This government inherited a public sector decimated by years of under-investment and is crying out for reform. These AI Exemplars show the best ways in which we’re using tech to build a smarter, more efficient state.”
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